Volunteer Adoption Counselor
How you’ll impact our mission
Volunteer Adoption Counselors directly support our community, staff, and animals by performing dog, cat, and small animal adoptions. If you’re looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and people while working alongside a supportive team, apply today!
Role responsibilities:
- Work with potential adopters to share information about our adoptable animals and provide supportive resources to make their adoption as successful as possible
- Answer client questions and provide support to clients as needed
- Offer strong customer service that is aligned with WHS values
- Utilize Waitwhile sign-in system and PetPoint database to track client and animal data
- Assist clients in the retail store with finding items and processing payments
- Connect with staff as necessary for guidance on navigating challenging conversations
- Follow safety protocols
- Report any medical or behavioral changes that are not already noted on the animal’s kennel
Requirements:
- Must be 16 years or older to volunteer
- Six-month commitment
- Commit to minimum of one, two hour shift weekly, preferably on the same day and timeslot
- Willing and able to safely handle cats and dogs according to WHS protocol
- Able to complete tasks independently
- Able to successfully meet the physical requirements, which include stooping, kneeling, crouching, standing, walking for extended periods of time, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions. Must have physical strength and coordination to handle larger dogs and/or dogs that pull on leash.
- Demonstrates flexibility and openness to feedback
- Committed to align with our mission, people-centered philosophy, and organizational values of compassion, respect, and kindness; innovation; professionalism; equity; and positive approach
- Ability to navigate emotional aspects of animal welfare work
Training:
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Meet & Greet with Volunteer Coordinator
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Volunteer Handbook & Waivers – Online Training
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People Centered Philosophy – Online Training
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Dog Handling Videos & Quiz – Online Training
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Cat Handling Videos & Quiz – Online Training
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In Person Dog Handling
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In Person Cat Handling
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Training with Trainer
- Approximately 35-40 hours hands-on training
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Ideally able to commit to 6 hours of training per week for 7-8 weeks
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We’ll work with your schedule to be as accommodating as possible
VAC - Available Shifts:
- Monday: 1pm-4pm; 3pm-6pm
- Tuesday: 1pm-4pm; 3pm-6pm
- Wednesday: 1pm-4pm; 3pm-6pm
- Friday: 1pm-4pm; 3pm-6pm
- Saturday: 3pm-6pm
